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Sequim proclaims International Overdose Awareness Day; council debates lighting landmark purple
Summary
Deputy Mayor Rachel Anderson presented a proclamation recognizing International Overdose Awareness Day (Aug. 31). Representatives from local treatment providers thanked the council. Councilors then debated whether to light a civic landmark purple in solidarity with nearby cities and requested clearer policy guidance before committing to displays.
The council recognized International Overdose Awareness Day and adopted a proclamation on Aug. 11 that names Aug. 31, 2025 as International Overdose Awareness Day in Sequim and encourages community members to learn naloxone use and reduce stigma.
Representatives from local behavioral‑health providers attended and thanked the council for the recognition. Melissa Waller, clinical director at Olympic Personal Growth Center, and Larianne Mishko, clinical director at Jamestown Healing Center, described treatment and recovery work in the community and invited residents to local awareness events on Aug. 31.
Council discussion: lighting a landmark Following the proclamation, councilors discussed joining Port Angeles and Forks in lighting a local landmark purple on Aug. 31. One councilor expressed reluctance to proceed without a clear policy that governs when the city uses lighting or other displays tied to proclamations; another councilor favored participating as a gesture of solidarity. The city attorney advised caution and recommended the council consider consistent guardrails for government speech and public displays. No formal vote was taken; councilors asked staff and legal counsel to return with possible policy options and to consider coordination with neighboring cities.
Ending: The proclamation was issued and representatives from recovery providers thanked councilors; staff will return with options and legal guidance for possible city‑sponsored lighting or displays.
